FOSTERA 5MG Tablets

Uses and Benefits of FOSTERA 5MG Tablets (Olanzapine 5mg + Fluoxetine 20mg)

This medicine is prescribed for people suffering from depressive episodes linked to bipolar disorder, where mood swings between depression and mania occur.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of depressive episodes associated with bipolar I disorder
• Sometimes used for treatment-resistant depression under specialist supervision

HOW IT WORKS

• Olanzapine helps balance certain brain chemicals (dopamine and serotonin) that affect mood, thinking, and behaviour
• Fluoxetine increases serotonin levels in the brain, which helps improve mood and reduce depressive symptoms
• Together they work faster and more effectively for bipolar depression than either alone

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not for routine anxiety or mild sadness
• Not for ordinary sleep problems
• Not a first-choice treatment for plain (unipolar) depression without bipolar features
• Not for use in children unless specifically advised by a psychiatrist

Side Effects of FOSTERA 5MG Tablets (Olanzapine 5mg + Fluoxetine 20mg)

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Weight gain
• Increased appetite
• Drowsiness or sedation
• Dry mouth
• Tiredness or weakness
• Nausea

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Tremor
• Sweating
• Sexual difficulties
• Sleep disturbances

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• High fever, stiff muscles, confusion, irregular heartbeat (signs of a rare condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome)
• Uncontrolled blood sugar rise (excessive thirst, frequent urination)
• Signs of serotonin syndrome — agitation, rapid heartbeat, high temperature, muscle twitching
• Suicidal thoughts or worsening depression, especially in young adults
• Severe allergic reaction — swelling of face/lips, difficulty breathing, rash
• Unusual bleeding or bruising

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

How to Use FOSTERA 5MG Tablets (Olanzapine 5mg + Fluoxetine 20mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily in the evening
• Swallow the tablet/capsule with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Can be taken with or without food, but be consistent with your chosen time
• Do not stop suddenly without talking to your doctor, as this can worsen your condition or cause withdrawal symptoms
• It may take a few weeks to feel the full benefit

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep in the original packaging until use
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Safety Information and Precautions for FOSTERA 5MG Tablets (Olanzapine 5mg + Fluoxetine 20mg)

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified doctor, usually a psychiatrist.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to olanzapine, fluoxetine, or any other ingredient
• Are taking or have recently stopped taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Have severe uncontrolled liver disease
• Are a child unless specifically prescribed by a specialist

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have diabetes or high blood sugar
• Have heart disease, low blood pressure, or history of stroke
• Have a history of seizures
• Have liver or kidney problems
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of bleeding disorders
• Have glaucoma or prostate problems

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antidepressants or antipsychotics
• Blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin
• Other serotonergic drugs (tramadol, triptans, St John's Wort)
• Sedatives, sleeping pills, or alcohol
• Medicines for diabetes, as blood sugar control may be affected

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drive after taking this medicine?

It may cause drowsiness or dizziness, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

Will I gain weight on this medicine?

Weight gain and increased appetite are common side effects, so your doctor may monitor your weight and blood sugar regularly.

Can I stop this medicine once I feel better?

• No, stopping suddenly can cause relapse or withdrawal symptoms; always taper off under your doctor's guidance.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.